CLOCKWORK ANGEL by Cassandra Clare

First published in Great Britain in 2010 by Walker Books Ltd

Paperback - 479 Pages

ISBN 978 - 1 - 4063 - 2881 - 3

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Magic is dangerous - but love is more dangerous still

When 16yo Tessa Gray arrives in England during the reign of Queen Victoria, something terrifying is waiting for her in London's Downworld, where vampires, warlocks and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Friendless and haunted, Tessa seeks refuge with the Shadowhunters, a band of warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons. Drawn ever deeper into their world, she finds herself fascinated by - and torn between - two best friends, and quickly realizes that love may be the most dangerous magic of all.

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I knew nothing about this book - but was totally drawn by the cover ... I think it's amazing.

I very quickly became engrossed with the story and felt alot of empathy for Tessa as she finds herself in a horrible situation, all alone and at the mercy of the Dark Sisters - and worried about her brother who no one has seen or heard of for ages.

When Tessa does find a way to escape the Dark Sisters, she finds herself being taken to the refuge of the Shadowhunters, with Will and Jem taking her under their care. Tessa finds her temper matching against Wills, and wondering what is going on with Jem, finding him very sickly from time to time.

The Shadowhunters are aware of Tessa's talent, and understand how the Downworld would like to have her, and use her for their own needs and desires, but they promise to protect her at all costs. And when 'All Costs' nearly does come true with Tessa's life under threat, they also find Tessa's brother Nathaniel - near death and being used by the Vampires.

Many things occur from this point - leading to danger and distrust, and also the attack on her haven, making her believe that her time with the Shadowhunters is under threat. Will and Jem come to the rescue just in time, and things between Will and Tessa change, as he thought that he had lost her to the Magister. And just when you think it's going to be a Happy Ever After ending, think again. You will have to read the 2nd book in the series "Clockwork Prince" to follow the story even further.

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I liked this book - found the characters believable and likeable - except for the Dark Sisters, and her servants.

I could clearly picture in my head the different locations, and also the characters - especially Henry, who is very quirky but not silly.

The beginning of a love story between Tessa and Will is always going to be under threat considering the talent that Tessa posesses, and the DownWorld wants. Whether Will can walk away from her, or if he takes that step to make the relationship grow, we will have to no doubt read in CLOCKWORK PRINCE.

The one downside for me was the Angel that Tessa wears around her neck .. I don't know why, but I did expect it to be more prominent in the book (maybe it has something to do with the name of the book) .. but I guess it served it's purpose.

I think you will enjoy this book .. I know that I did.

RATING ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ (4 hearts = good read)